The Brunette Diaries

Top 4 tips for puppy care

Everyone loves animals. Do I hear a no? Okay, there may be some people who dislike them, but majority of the world’s population love animals and some people even have them as pets at home. Be it parrots, guinea pigs, cats, dogs or even lion cubs, there are a variety of animals and birds that can be kept as pets at home. However, dogs seem to top the pet list worldwide.

The way they yelp for food, their bum wobbling when they play, their sad face for locking them in the kennel, the excitement they show when they see you after long hours, getting petrified of their own fart noise, hiding under our legs when lightning strikes and much more. Can you name one thing that you don’t find to be cute in your furry ball of joy? Initially, they might be a headache; but, they capture our hearts soon enough and become a part of our family.

With so much ‘dog’ertainment that we get, the least we can do is to tend to their needs. Once we bring them home, they are under our protection. It is important for us to know what is right and wrong for the puppy’s growth. If you are a first timer, here are a few essential tips that will help you take good care of your four-legged buddy.

Do you have the essentials?

Your pet might be a part of your family, but he is still an animal. It is mandatory to keep his things separate from yours. Feeding bowl, water bowl, comb, brush, shampoo, towel, collar and leash have to be washed regularly and kept aside. Do not mix your stuff with his. It is not good for your health and your puppy’s.

Did you puppy-proof your house?

It is important to puppy-proof your house, lest it keeps on chewing your stuff during its teething phase. Keep things at a higher level so that the naughty little one is unable to reach there. Be it kitchenware, shoes, clothes, combs or the kinds; don’t make it accessible for your puppy.

Do you take him to the vet regularly?

Initially, your puppy needs a few vaccinations to ensure that doesn’t face any health issues. Also, even if he is in the pink of health, make sure you visit the vet on a regularly basis, mainly because, even though he may seem fine he doesn’t ‘talk’ to tell us his invisible body problems.

Do you groom him from time-to-time?

If your puppy is furry, it is important for you to groom him from time-to-time. Otherwise, his hair can easily get knotted up and give him a lot of pain when you decide to sit one fine day to comb his fur. Also, clean and bathe him frequently as per the vet’s instructions. Make sure you keep a tab of fleas and other pests that may be clinging on to your pet’s body.

Do you know that human food is toxic to your puppy?

By feeding your puppy with food that you consume, you are intoxicating him. It might be difficult for you to gobble chips when he is sitting right in front you waiting for you to throw him at least one piece. But, don’t feed him. When you are eating, either keep him in his kennel or train him to not ask for your food.

Having a dog as a family member is a wonderful feeling. You can love him or abuse him; but, at the end of the day, he will still love you unconditionally. Let’s not do the latter, and be faithful to him, as he is to us.

Things to remember while involving your kids and pets

Children always fancy owning pets at home. Many children pester their parents to gift kittens and puppies for their birthdays. If you are a pet lover and have approved the idea of owning one at home, here are a few tips and ideas to help you initiate an amicable relationship between your children and the four-footed newcomer.

Deciding on the pet

Now that you have decided to own a pet, it is important for you to know which kind you want to adopt. First, you must know that a bigger pet requires a bigger house. If your house is small and if you think dogs may eventually find it difficult to walk around, buy goldfish or guinea pigs. Fishes stay in tanks, thus requiring a small space. Also, take into consideration your children’s age. Children need to get along with pets at home; therefore it is important for you to think about your children’s age before you allow the two to bond with each other.

Train your pet to maintain routines

Prepare pet schedule that will help you train your pet on a daily basis. Allow your children to help you in the process. Make them do small work like changing water or feeding your pet. In this way, your children can lay a foundation to new friendship with their pet. Take your children along with you while visiting the vet for routine check-ups.

Don’t be rude

If your children forget to feed the pet or walk him in the evening, don’t shout or punish them. Allow your children to make mistakes. Explain the consequences to them. They understand facts faster when explained patiently rather than with a rough tone. This way, help them understand and learn things. By handling the situation calmly, you are reassuring the bond between your children and your pet. Encourage them to apologise to your pet for forgetting to feed it. Making conversations with your pets helps in bonding better.

Teach team work to your kids

Divide the work among your children and give them individual work to bond with the pet. Ask one kid to feed the pet time-to-time while the other does potty training. Exchange the schedules on a weekly basis and make sure they actively participate in the bonding process.

Timely check on your kid’s behaviour towards the pet

While some children jump in joy to welcome the newcomer, others may not like the sudden attention that your new pet receives. Some children show their anger by throwing things at the pet. During situations like this, sit and explain the benefits of having a pet at home. Ensure that the pet can be a best friend to your child provided he is treated well. Also, monitor your child time-to-time to ensure that he treats your pet well.

Don’t forget to click pictures of your children bonding with the pet. Children and pets are the cutest combination ever and capturing those moments will be the best way of freezing it.

Caging birds: Is it wrong?

When birds are in the wild, these beautiful creatures are never alone. You may have noticed this on a wildlife channel or probably in real life as well. Even for a moment if they are away from their flock mates, they call wildly to get back to each other’s company. So what are we doing when we actually cage these gorgeous winged creatures? We’re crushing their spirits at the expense of our delight. Harsh, isn’t it? They may beautify our homes and it may be a great hobby to rear them, but what good is it doing them?

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Caging birds is something that seems so normal to us but can be a nightmare to birds. The greatest thing about being a bird is the ability to fly – to soar above the skies, a freedom that other creatures can only envy. So, to confine a bird to a cage where it can barely fly at all is severely cruel.

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Jaya Sawant is a pet lover who has two dogs. She is of the opinion that dogs may be great pets, but caging a bird is just not right. “Having a pet dog is fine, in fact better than it living on the road. But caging a bird is just so wrong, on so many levels! How would a human like it? Whenever we think of cruelty to animals, the first thing we need to consider is, will you live that life for even a day? How would that feel?”

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It clearly shows on the behaviour of the bird as well. You don’t see a chirpy bird in a cage, do you? You may see a well trained bird that probably loves his ‘master’, but there you go! We talk about slavery being a thing of the past, but we enslave these majestic creatures and call ourselves masters! Double standards, eh?

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Donating your bird to a sanctuary is a great option

So, if you have a caged bird at home, what is the next option for you? Probably a bird sanctuary is a good choice as this will give your bird more space and more birds to live with. The next time you go to by a bird, remember that it hurts their life to stay in a cage. If you are generous enough to buy a bird and set it free, that will credit your humanity to no limit! However, consider that a caged bird may not be able to live a free life soon after and donating it to a sanctuary may always be the best option.

Monsoon Season Pet Care Dos And Don’ts

When the first shower of rains hit the earth, we earthlings rejoice as the scorching summer has finally ended. However, the happiness we feel when it rains isn’t shared by our animal friends. This season is a stressful time for your pets. Monsoon season pet care involves special care and attention from you.

Immunisation And Vaccination

Our furry friends are likely to be victims of rabies, aggravated flea infections, fungal infections, gastro enteritis, feline flu, etc during the monsoons. These, however, can be easily treated by the vet. Regular immunity shots and vaccines are essential to maintain good health.

There are no vaccinations for birds, the best thing you can do for them is ensure they are kept indoors at all times, not even the balcony will do. Keep them in a dry place and don’t forget to change their water regularly. Stagnant water breeds germs.

Also read: Care For Your Dog: 6 Common Mistakes To Avoid

Breathing Problems

As a result of the high moisture content in the air it is likely that your pet will suffer from respiratory diseases. They mostly suffer from respiratory tract infections which may also be related to an allergy. Cats are especially prone to this condition. To keep your pets comfortable, make sure their surroundings are dry and warm. Avoid air-conditioners and coolers.

High Humidity

The high levels of humidity in this season make their wet fur smell. Damp fur is a breeding ground for fleas and worms. Medicated talc and deodorants will help you tackle the smell and avoid fungal infections, while a constant check for worms and fleas is essential.

The high humidity has harmful effects on the health of your feathered friends as well. They can undergo skin infections and feather loss. Use topical anti-bacterial lotions to avoid this and keep them healthy.

Also read: Keep Your Beloved Pet Stress Free!

Bed And Bath

Don’t let your pets sleep on the floor during the rains. The cold floor may cause them to catch a cold. Prepare warm bedding for them, and make sure it is clean and dry at all times.

Bathing your pets may be required more often than usual, as going outdoors will result in them returning home covered in muck. Since a regular water bath isn’t advisable either, try investing in a dry shampoo for your pet.

As for birds, try and avoid baths for them as they are most likely to catch a cold because of it.

Diet

Give your pets ample food and fresh clean water, but don’t overdo it. Give them their prescribed dietary recommendation only, and don’t overfeed them. Vomiting and diarrhoea is common during the monsoon. Maintain a healthy diet for them, to keep their tummies functioning smoothly.

Exercise And Indoor Activities

Our pets, especially dogs, love the outdoors, but because of the downpour outside one must limit their outings. This may result in them becoming lazy and lethargic which isn’t very healthy for them. Get creative and come up with fun activities to do with your pets indoors. Your aim is to keep them busy, moving and active.

Also read: 5 Things That Cats Dislike Like Hell

Fashionable Monsoon Wear

When your pets do go out, cover them in some trendy pet wear. There are so many colourful options available in the market, that not only make your pets look adorable, but also serve as great protection against the downpour.

Things you should remember:

The sound of thunder is extremely unpleasing to your pets. Turn on the television to keep them distracted and mask the thunder’s noise.

Keep them dry at all times.

Don’t let them eat stale food and water. Give them a fresh meal in a clean dish.

Keep birds far from moisture and water.

Baby pets need extra attention and care.

At the slightest sign of an infection or itch, take them to a vet immediately; don’t medicate them yourself. Remember you aren’t a vet (unless you actually are one).

Lastly, keep in mind prevention is better than cure. Monsoon season pet care requires efforts from your side. Your pets are your responsibility; don’t be lazy in caring for them.

7 Places To Take Your Dog For A Delightful Outing

Dogs by nature are loyal and outgoing. They love the outside world; and it is a good practice to take your pet outside your house frequently. Going out keeps their energy levels up and does not let lethargy set in, thus also keeping them healthy and active. Here are a few outdoor places to take your dog, that they will enjoy for sure.

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Dog Park

This is an absolute no brainer, but I am going to mention it either way. Look for a dog park in your vicinity and make sure to make a trip to it along with your pawed buddy as often as you can. These areas are especially made for your dogs where you can unleash them, something that you know they love.

Dog Play Dates

If you visit the dog park often, your pet will most likely develop camaraderie of sorts with the other dogs who play in the park. You can then develop a friendship with the owners of those dogs and set up play dates for your pets. It needn’t be the park alone; it could even be one of your homes. It will certainly make your dog happy to have some time to play with his pal.

Sporting Events

Now I don’t mean a professional cricket match in a stadium, for that isn’t allowed. However, if you and your buddies are playing a match of football at the local ground then why not let your dog tag along? All the energy he is going to get by simply watching you guys play, is going to get him all pepped up. And after the match you can kick about a few balls with your pet as well.

Also read: Easy Tips For Effective Dog Training Sessions

Drive Through

It is no secret that all dogs love going out for drives in a car. They simply love the wind brushing past their face in the fast moving car. So, if you own a car, try and spare some time and take your furry friend out for drives.

Also read: Easy Tips For Effective Dog Training Sessions

Drive Through

Ice Cream Runs

Feel like having ice cream late at night, and are planning to make a quick trip to the ice cream parlour? Take your dog with you. A lot of ice cream parlours today have outdoor seating where you can enjoy your cold treat. Here you can also treat your pet to a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I bet you, your pet will love you for the sweet treat. Just keep the chocolate flavours far away from them.

Sun And Sand

Your dog is going to love the beach. Dogs love water, and the beach has a never ending supply of it. Let your pets loose and let them splash around in the water and run around in the sand. Carry a Frisbee or ball with you; your pooch will love to play ‘catch’ and ‘fetch’ with you here, as the beach is a perfect place for the game.

Also read: Grooming Tips To Curb Excessive Shedding In Dogs

Treks And Camps

As I mentioned before, all dogs love the outdoors, and what is more outdoor than camping in the open. Plan a trip with your buddies and your pet, and even their pets if possible. Spend the night in the open. Your dog will love the fresh air and the ample space to run around, explore and chase squirrels too. It will be a good change for your pet, away from the busy hustle and bustle of the city.

Now that you know the apt places to take your dog for an outing, when are you taking your furry pal out?

Places you should take your dogs on vacation

Ever wondered where you’ll be headed next for a trip out of town or for summer vacation. But how often do we think what places will be the best for our pets. There aren’t lot many places that are fun and safe for dogs, in fact many don’t even allow dogs. Dogs love us without any conditions, they are the most excited to see you after a long day of waiting and I think they deserve the world. So, here are some of the great places around globe where you can take your doggo pal for a fun vacation.

1) Santa Barbara

Dogs love playing in the water. They run around crazily and you can see their wide smile quite evidently. It can be great for you as well, to get some sun. Dogs often get cramped in houses as there’s not much space for them to play around and beaches offer lots of free spaces for playing.

2) Denver

Thinking international trip? Denver is the best bet. The city offers 179 restaurants are dog friendly. Among the many popular off-leash parks are Greenway Park and Chatfield State Park, with its breathtaking mountain views. Baby may prefer exploring her creative side at Paw Prints and Cocktails in Denver’s Arts District, an evening of pet-friendly painting.

3) Carmel By The Sea

Rated the #1 Dog Friendly Town in America, Carmel-by-the-Sea is truly a world-class pet friendly destination that caters to four-legged companions. Water bowls, dog treats and biodegradable bags at most locations are just the typical amenities offered, plus high-end services like massages, doggy turn downs, surf lessons and yappy hour are also readily available in Carmel.

4) Bar Harbour

For pups and their owners who love the outdoors, there’s no better place than picturesque Bar Harbor, snuggled amid Acadia National Park’s sea and mountain splendor. While many national parks are not dog friendly, Acadia decidedly is. Here, dogs and humans alike can camp, hike, kayak, bird-watch, climb, skijor, fish and more. One of the favorite off-leash venues is Little Long Pond, a private space to run and play along wooded trails, meadows, and a nice big pond.

Let us know which one’s your favorite in the comment section below

Did You Know That You Could Be Spreading These 5 Diseases To Your Dog?

We always get our pets vaccinated, thinking we may catch something off of them. But have you ever thought what if your dog could catch some disease because of you? Yes, unknowingly you could spread these 5 diseases to your best friend. Think about it, who is the first to comfort you when you’re sick and blue? Cuddles and kisses are lovable but it should be highly avoided during sickness.

1) Ring Worm

This common fungal infection is the easiest to spread as it spreads through direct skin contact, and we all know how cuddly dogs can get. The fungus appears as a raised, red circular rash on the skin that’s sometimes flaky and itchy. Dogs can’t resist a good scratch, so you’ll need to treat the infection with anti-fungal medications.

2) Flu

If you’re down for the count with a flu bug, your dog could come down with it, too. The symptoms will be similar; you’ll both feel achy and have respiratory issues such as coughing and sneezing, but there’s no special treatment your pup will need. Like humans with the flu, your pet will have to ride it out.

3) Giardia

Giardia is an intestinal parasite that comes from drinking contaminated water, usually improperly treated or untreated water from a stream or lake. Stomach upset and diarrhea are the main symptoms. Dogs love to lick, so be prompt about washing your hands post using the toilet, also if you have a pup who likes to drink out of the toilet, that can be major trouble.

4) Lung Cancer

Are you a smoker? Second hand smoke can be bad for both humans and DOGS. Dogs (and other pets) are actually more sensitive to the pollutants in second-hand smoke than humans, leaving them at risk for a variety of health issues and diseases such as weight gain and cancer. For the sake of your pet’s health and well yours too, QUIT SMOKING!

5) Mumps

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus that passes from one person to another through saliva, nasal secretions, and close personal contact. Your dog can catch the mumps from you or your children, and he’ll feel lousy, with general discomfort, possibly a fever, and swelling of the salivary glands.

So, make sure of keeping a check on your pet’s health from time to time 🙂